Afghanistan’s government spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid has accused Pakistan of carrying out airstrikes in Kabul early Friday, just hours after Afghan forces reportedly crossed the border for an operation inside Pakistan. Afghan officials said at least three explosions were heard in the capital, though the exact locations and casualties remain unconfirmed. Mujahid also claimed that Pakistan targeted Kandahar and Paktia provinces. The developments have raised concerns that the Qatar-mediated ceasefire could be collapsing.

Earlier, Afghanistan said its cross-border operation was in response to a deadly Pakistani airstrike on Sunday that killed several people. Pakistan, however, maintained that its earlier strike targeted terrorist positions and dismissed Kabul’s claim of capturing military posts as “provocative.” Pakistani security sources told Geo News that their air force destroyed an ammunition depot in Nangarhar province, killing 133 Taliban members and injuring over 200 in retaliation for alleged border provocations.

UN Secretary-General António Guterres urged both countries to protect civilians and adhere to international law, while his spokesperson emphasized the need for intensified diplomatic efforts to resolve the dispute.